Is your car making noise when turning? It can be a disconcerting experience, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. There are a number of reasons why your car might be making noise when turning, and it’s important to identify the cause so that you can address the issue and ensure that your car is safe to drive.

One of the most common causes of noise when turning is a problem with the suspension system. This can include worn ball joints, bad coil springs, or worn shocks or struts. If you hear a creaking or groaning noise when turning, it’s likely that the suspension system is the culprit.

No.	Issue	Symptom	Identification	Fix
1	Engine Knocking	Pinging, knocking, or tapping noises from the engine	Listen for noise during acceleration	Use higher-octane fuel or fix engine issue
2	Exhaust Leaks	Increased engine noise, hissing or ticking sounds	Check for leaks, listen for noise near exhaust	Repair or replace damaged exhaust parts
3	Worn Suspension Components	Clunking, rattling, or squeaking over bumps	Inspect suspension parts for wear/damage	Replace worn/damaged parts
4	Damaged CV Joints	Clicking or popping during turns	Check CV joints for damage or wear	Replace damaged CV joints
5	Transmission Issues	Whining, humming, or clunking noises	Check fluid level, listen for noise	Consult mechanic for diagnosis/repair
6	Loose Heat Shields	Rattling noises from under the car	Inspect heat shields for looseness	Tighten or replace loose heat shields
7	Worn Timing Belt	Ticking noise from the engine	Inspect timing belt for wear	Replace worn timing belt
8	Engine Misfire	Hesitation, loss of power, rough idle	Check for codes, inspect ignition components	Repair ignition system
9	Damaged Belts/Tensioners	Squealing, chirping, or squeaking noises from engine	Inspect belts and tensioners	Replace worn/damaged parts
10	Clogged Fuel Filter	Hesitation, lack of power, poor acceleration	Check fuel pressure, inspect filter	Replace clogged fuel filter
11	Damaged Spark Plugs	Rough idle, poor performance, misfires	Inspect spark plugs for wear/damage	Replace damaged spark plugs
12	Failing Fuel Pump	Whining or buzzing noise from fuel tank area	Check fuel pressure, listen for noise	Replace failing fuel pump
13	Worn Clutch	Slipping, grinding, or difficulty shifting gears	Check clutch pedal free play, inspect clutch	Replace worn clutch components
14	Deteriorated Motor Mounts	Vibration, clunking, or engine movement	Inspect motor mounts for wear/damage	Replace damaged motor mounts
15	Vacuum Leaks	Hissing noises, rough idle, stalling	Inspect for vacuum leaks	Repair or replace leaking components
16	Clogged Catalytic Converter	Reduced performance, rattling, sulfur smell	Check for codes, inspect converter	Replace clogged catalytic converter
17	Damaged Suspension Bushings	Clunking or squeaking when driving over bumps	Inspect bushings for wear/damage	Replace worn/damaged suspension bushings
18	Failing Alternator	Whining or grinding noise from engine, electrical issues	Check charging system, inspect alternator	Replace failing alternator
19	Loose or Damaged Wheel Bearings	Humming, rumbling, or growling noises	Check for play in wheel hub assembly	Replace damaged wheel bearings

20	Failing Power Steering Pump	Whining or squealing when turning the steering wheel	Check fluid level, inspect pump	Replace failing power steering pump
21	Damaged Serpentine Belt	Squealing or chirping noise from engine	Inspect belt for wear or damage	Replace damaged serpentine belt
22	Brake Issues	Squeaking, grinding, or pulsating when braking	Inspect brake components	Replace or repair damaged brake parts
23	Failing A/C Compressor	Rattling, squealing, or grinding noise when A/C is on	Inspect A/C compressor, check refrigerant	Replace failing A/C compressor

23 Reasons Why Your Car is Making Noise When Turning

If you’re hearing strange noises when turning your car, it can be a sign of a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Here are 23 reasons why your car might be making noise when turning and what you can do about it.

1. Bad CV Joints
   • Symptom: Clunking, popping, or snapping sounds when turning.
   • Issue: Worn-out CV joints, which help transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
   • Identification: Check for grease leaks around the CV boot or on the front wheels and brake calipers.
   • Fix: Replace the damaged CV joint or boot. A CV boot replacement usually costs between $180 and $350, while a CV joint replacement can cost up to $850 or more.
2. Faulty Wheel Bearings
   • Symptom: High-pitched whining, grinding, scraping, or rubbing noises when turning.
   • Issue: Damaged wheel bearings, which help wheels rotate smoothly and support the vehicle’s weight.
   • Identification: Listen for the noise to increase when turning at higher speeds. A mechanic can also inspect the wheel bearings for wear or damage.
   • Fix: Replace the faulty wheel bearings. This can range in cost depending on the vehicle and the specific bearings being replaced.

3. Broken Steering Rack and Pinion
   • Symptom: Clicking noise or loud bangs from underneath the vehicle when turning.
   • Issue: A failing rack and pinion steering system, which is crucial for steering control.
   • Identification: Check for a burnt smell, steering fluid leaks, or tightness in the steering wheel.
   • Fix: Replace the faulty rack and pinion steering system. Costs can vary depending on the vehicle and specific components being replaced.
4. Flawed Starter or Suspension Components
   • Symptom: Grinding or straining noises when starting the car and turning.
   • Issue: A bad starter or damaged suspension joints.
   • Identification: Listen for grinding noises when starting the engine (starter issue) or when turning (suspension joint issue).
   • Fix: Replace the faulty starter or suspension components. Costs can range depending on the specific parts being replaced.
5. Uneven, Out-Of-Balance, or Misaligned Tires
   • Symptom: Tire noises while driving, especially when turning.
   • Issue: Uneven tire wear, out-of-balance, or misaligned tires.
   • Identification: Inspect the tires for uneven wear, and have a mechanic check the alignment.
   • Fix: Rotate the tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, replace worn tires, and have your vehicle’s alignment checked and adjusted as needed.
6. Low or Inadequate Power Steering Fluid
   • Symptom: Screeching or whining noises during normal or low-speed turns.
   • Issue: Low amounts of power steering fluid in the system.
   • Identification: Check the power steering fluid levels and look for leaks.
   • Fix: Top off the power steering fluid, and address any leaks by replacing the affected parts.
7. Clogged Steering Reservoir Tank
   • Symptom: Difficulty turning the wheel and strange noises at low speeds.
   • Issue: A clogged power steering reservoir tank.
   • Identification: Inspect the fluid levels, look for leaks, and check the filter inside the tank for dirt and debris.
   • Fix: Clean or flush the power steering reservoir tank, and replace any damaged components as needed.
8. Worn Struts and Shocks
   • Symptom: Metallic clunking noise and a loose feel when going over bumps or uneven roads.
   • Issue: Damaged struts or shocks, or worn mounting hardware.
   • Identification: Inspect the mounting hardware and look for excessive wear or looseness.
   • Fix: Replace the damaged struts or shocks, and tighten or replace any worn mounting hardware.
9. Damaged Sway Bar Links
   • Symptom: Rattling or clunking noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
   • Issue: Worn or damaged sway bar links, which connect the sway bar to the suspension.
   • Identification: Visually inspect the sway bar links for signs of wear or damage, and check for play or looseness in the connections.
   • Fix: Replace the damaged sway bar links to restore stability and reduce noise.
10. Faulty Wheel Bearings
    • Symptom: Growling or humming noises that become more pronounced when turning.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged wheel bearings, which support the vehicle’s weight and reduce friction between the wheel and axle.
    • Identification: Listen for noise coming from the wheel area when driving and turning. A mechanic can help confirm the issue using specialized equipment.
    • Fix: Replace the faulty wheel bearings to eliminate noise and maintain proper wheel function.
11. Worn or Damaged Control Arm Bushings
    • Symptom: Thumping or clunking noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged control arm bushings, which help to maintain stability and absorb road shock.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the control arm bushings for signs of wear, cracks, or damage, and check for excessive movement in the control arm.
    • Fix: Replace the worn or damaged control arm bushings to restore proper suspension function and reduce noise.
12. Loose or Damaged Engine and Transmission Mounts
    • Symptom: Clunking, thumping, or rattling noises when accelerating or turning.
    • Issue: Loose or damaged engine and transmission mounts, which hold the engine and transmission securely in place.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the mounts for signs of wear, cracks, or damage, and check for excessive movement in the engine or transmission.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged engine and transmission mounts to secure the components and reduce noise.
13. Failing Driveshaft U-Joints
    • Symptom: Squeaking, clunking, or clicking noises while driving, particularly during turns.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged driveshaft U-joints, which connect the driveshaft to the vehicle’s transmission and rear axle.
    • Identification: Check the U-joints for excessive play or damage, and listen for noises coming from the driveshaft area.
    • Fix: Replace the faulty U-joints to restore proper driveshaft function and eliminate noise.
14. Faulty Axle Shafts or CV Joints
    • Symptom: Clicking or popping noises when turning, accelerating, or decelerating.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged axle shafts or CV joints, which transfer power from the transmission to the wheels.
    • Identification: Listen for noise coming from the axle area during turns, and visually inspect the CV joints for signs of damage or leaking grease.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged axle shafts or CV joints to restore proper power transfer and eliminate noise.
15. Worn or Damaged Tie Rod Ends
    • Symptom: Clunking or knocking noises during turns or when driving over bumps.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged tie rod ends, which connect the steering system to the wheels.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the tie rod ends for signs of wear or damage, and check for play or looseness in the connections.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged tie rod ends to restore proper steering function and reduce noise.
16. Loose or Worn Suspension Strut Mounts
    • Symptom: Clunking, rattling, or squeaking noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
    • Issue: Loose or worn suspension strut mounts, which connect the strut assembly to the vehicle body.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the strut mounts for signs of wear, cracks, or damage, and check for play or looseness in the connections.
    • Fix: Replace the worn or damaged strut mounts to restore proper suspension function and reduce noise.
17. Loose or Damaged Exhaust System Components
    • Symptom: Rattling, clunking, or buzzing noises from underneath the vehicle.
    • Issue: Loose or damaged exhaust system components, such as heat shields, hangers, or brackets.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the exhaust system for loose or damaged components, and check for excessive movement or vibration.
    • Fix: Repair or replace the damaged exhaust system components to secure the system and reduce noise.
18. Worn or Damaged Ball Joints
    • Symptom: Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps or during turns.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged ball joints, which connect the control arms to the steering knuckles.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the ball joints for signs of wear or damage, and check for play or looseness in the connections.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged ball joints to restore proper suspension function and reduce noise.
19. Loose or Damaged Wheel Bearings
    • Symptom: Humming, rumbling, or growling noises that increase with vehicle speed.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged wheel bearings, which support the vehicle’s weight and reduce friction between the wheel hub and axle.
    • Identification: Listen for noise coming from the wheel area, especially during turns, and check for play or looseness in the wheel hub assembly.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged wheel bearings to restore proper function and reduce noise.
20. Loose or Worn Serpentine Belt
    • Symptom: Squealing or chirping noises from the engine bay, particularly during startup or acceleration.
    • Issue: A loose or worn serpentine belt, which drives various engine accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the serpentine belt for signs of wear, fraying, or cracking, and check for proper tension.
    • Fix: Replace the worn or damaged serpentine belt and adjust tension to restore proper function and reduce noise.
21. Damaged or Worn Brake Components
    • Symptom: Squealing, grinding, or scraping noises when applying the brakes.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged brake pads, rotors, or calipers, which can lead to reduced braking performance and increased noise.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the brake system components for wear or damage, and listen for noise during braking.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged brake components and perform regular brake maintenance to restore proper function and reduce noise.
22. Worn or Damaged Power Steering Components
    • Symptom: Whining or groaning noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
    • Issue: Worn or damaged power steering pump, hoses, or fluid, which can reduce steering assist and increase noise.
    • Identification: Check the power steering fluid level and condition, and visually inspect the power steering system for leaks or damage.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged power steering components and perform regular maintenance to restore proper function and reduce noise.
23. Malfunctioning Air Conditioning (A/C) System
    • Symptom: Rattling, buzzing, or humming noises coming from the A/C system, particularly when it’s turned on.
    • Issue: Damaged or worn A/C compressor, clutch, or other components, which can reduce cooling performance and increase noise.
    • Identification: Visually inspect the A/C system for signs of damage or wear, and listen for noise when the system is running.
    • Fix: Replace the damaged A/C components and perform regular maintenance to restore proper function and reduce noise.

How to Prevent This from Happening in the Future

If your car is making noise when turning, it is important to take action to prevent it from happening again in the future. Here are some tips to help you avoid this issue:

1. Regular Maintenance: One of the most important things you can do to prevent noise when turning is to keep up with regular maintenance. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance can help keep your car running smoothly and prevent problems from developing.
2. Check Your Tires: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. If your tires are worn out or damaged, they can cause noise when turning. You should also make sure your wheels are properly aligned and balanced.
3. Use the Right Fluids: Make sure you are using the right fluids in your car, including power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Using the wrong fluids can cause problems and lead to noise when turning.
4. Avoid Overloading Your Car: Overloading your car can put extra stress on your suspension and steering systems, which can cause noise when turning. Make sure you are not carrying more weight than your car is designed to handle.
5. Drive Carefully: Avoid aggressive driving and sudden turns, as these can put extra stress on your car’s systems and cause noise when turning.
6. Replace Worn Parts: If you notice any worn or damaged parts, such as tie rod ends or wheel bearings, replace them as soon as possible. This can help prevent noise when turning and other problems from developing.

By following these tips, you can help prevent noise when turning and keep your car running smoothly. Remember to keep up with regular maintenance and address any problems as soon as they arise.

Final Thoughts

If your car is making noise when turning, there are several possible causes. It’s important to identify the cause of the noise and address it promptly to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Here are some final thoughts to keep in mind:

Professional Help

If you’re not comfortable diagnosing and repairing the issue yourself, it’s always best to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can quickly identify the cause of the noise and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Stability

No matter what the cause of the noise, it’s important to ensure that your vehicle remains stable and safe to drive. If you notice any vibrations or instability while turning, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Types of Noise

Different types of noise can indicate different issues with your vehicle. Here are some common types of noise and what they might mean:

• Creaking: worn suspension components or steering linkage
• Whining: low power steering fluid or a failing power steering pump
• Clicking: worn CV joints or a failing axle
• Screeching or squealing: worn brake pads or a failing belt
• Popping or crunching: worn suspension components or steering linkage
• Humming: worn wheel bearings
• Rattling: loose or damaged components
• Knocking: worn engine bearings or connecting rods
• Rubbing: worn suspension components or steering linkage
• Whirring: worn wheel bearings or differential

Addressing the Issue

Once you’ve identified the cause of the noise, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Here are some common repairs that might be necessary:

• Replacing worn suspension components or steering linkage
• Topping off or replacing low power steering fluid
• Replacing a failing power steering pump
• Replacing worn CV joints or a failing axle
• Replacing worn brake pads or a failing belt
• Tightening or replacing loose or damaged components
• Replacing worn engine bearings or connecting rods
• Replacing worn wheel bearings or differential

Remember, if you’re not comfortable diagnosing or repairing the issue yourself, it’s always best to seek professional help. Addressing the issue promptly can help prevent further damage to your vehicle and ensure that it remains safe to drive.

FAQ

Why does my car make noise when I turn?

There are several reasons why your car might make noise when turning. Some of the most common causes include:

• Worn ball joints
• Bad wheel bearings
• Damaged CV joints
• Worn steering rack
• Low power steering fluid

Why does my car make a groaning noise when I turn right?

If your car makes a groaning noise when you turn right, it could be due to a problem with the power steering system. Low power steering fluid or a damaged power steering pump can cause this issue.

What does a bad ball joint sound like when turning?

A bad ball joint can cause a clunking noise when turning. You might also notice that your car’s steering feels loose or that the steering wheel vibrates.

Does a bad wheel bearing make my car make noise when turning?

Yes, a bad wheel bearing can cause your car to make noise when turning. You might hear a humming or grinding noise coming from the wheels.

Is it safe to drive when steering wheel makes noise when turning?

If your steering wheel makes noise when turning, it’s best to have it checked out by a mechanic. Depending on the cause of the noise, it could be unsafe to drive your car.

In general, it’s always a good idea to have any unusual noises checked out by a professional. Ignoring the problem could lead to more serious issues down the line.